Shubuta Red Water Artesian Well, Shubuta, MS

## Overview The Shubuta Red Water Artesian Well is a locally famous natural artesian well located in the small town of Shubuta, Mississippi, in Clarke County. Known for its distinctive reddish-colored water, this free-flowing well has long been a popular stop for residents and visitors seeking natural spring water. The well's striking red hue comes from its high mineral content — most notably iron and sulfur, which are commonly found in the deep aquifers of southeastern Mississippi. Collecting the water in a clear bottle reveals the rich mineral coloration, and the sulfur content is readily apparent. The well flows continuously through a tap at an impressive rate, making it easy to fill containers quickly. The tap and surrounding fixtures are coated in algae and moss — a testament to the constant, year-round flow of mineral-rich water. The artesian well sits beneath a distinctive circular wooden shade structure, serving as both a landmark and a shelter for visitors filling up their jugs. There are no posted signs indicating the water is unsafe for drinking, and the well has historically been used as a drinking water source by locals. However, as with any untreated natural water source, visitors should be aware that the water has not been officially tested or certified as potable. Shubuta itself is a small, historic town along U.S. Route 145 in Clarke County, and the Red Water Artesian Well is considered one of its most well-known attractions. ## Directions 1. **Find U.S. Route 145**, which runs north–south through the center of Shubuta. 2. **Head to the center of town** along Route 145 (approaching from either the north or south). 3. **Turn east onto Shubuta Street.** 4. **Take the first left onto Station Street**, heading north. 5. The **Red Water Artesian Well** will be on your **right side**, located at the intersection. **GPS Coordinates:** 31.8607, -88.6973 The well is easy to spot thanks to its circular wooden shade structure and the telltale reddish water staining the ground around it. ## What to Expect Visitors will find a continuously flowing artesian well housed beneath a round wooden canopy. The water pours from a tap at a strong, steady rate — filling containers is quick and effortless. The tap and surrounding area are covered in green algae and moss due to the constant moisture, which adds to the rustic, natural character of the site. The water itself is visibly reddish in color, a result of dissolved iron and sulfur minerals from the deep underground aquifer. The sulfur content may also give the water a faint mineral smell, which is typical of sulfur-rich artesian sources. Bringing clear containers will let you see the distinctive coloration up close. There is no limit on how much water you can collect, so bring as many jugs or bottles as you'd like. The site is publicly accessible and located right in town, so no hiking or off-road driving is required. Parking is available along the nearby streets. This is a year-round water source, though the surrounding area may be muddier during rainy seasons due to the constant overflow. Wear shoes you don't mind getting wet or dirty, especially near the base of the well.